If you’re based in the United States, right now is a challenging time at many universities due to near- and long-term uncertainties regarding research funding given the actions taken by the current administration. Many universities have reduced graduate admissions, and some even rescinded offers to already-admitted students due to funding cuts and withholding.
In my opinion, there are a few alternative options:
1. Were you admitted to any MS/PhD programs? Graduate school is less about the ranking of the school and more about the research you accomplish while you are in school. Even if the program isn’t your dream program, you’ll still get to do research.
2. I haven’t heard of any “pre-doc” programs, but a great way to bolster your chances for PhD admissions is to earn a master’s degree and do a thesis instead of a project. This gives you an additional two years to bolster your resume and even build a publication record. In many countries outside the US, a master’s is required for PhD admissions.
